The European Boating Industry (EBI) has concluded its first general assembly of 2024 at boot Düsseldorf.

Members gathered in person to network and explore the latest innovations and prospects showcased at boot Düsseldorf.

The association, representing the recreational boating industry in Europe, unanimously approved two new full members: the Irish Marine Federation and the Latvian Cruising Association, and one new sustaining member, Brunswick Corporation.

The Latvian Cruising Association is dedicated to the boating sector in Latvia, and the Irish Marine Federation represents both the commercial and leisure sectors of the marine industry in Ireland.

“This cooperation marks a new chapter in our commitment to advancing recreational boating standards, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, and contributing to the global maritime community,” says Askolds Hermanis, president of the Latvian Cruising Association. “Our objectives align seamlessly with the mission and values of the European Boating Industry, and we aim to strengthen our efforts in advocating for effective regulations, particularly in the areas of skipper certification and boat registration.”

Brunswick Corporation is a global leader with a strong European manufacturing and service footprint in recreational boats, marine engines, and marine parts and accessories.

Lee Gordon, vice president of communications at Brunswick Corporation, adds: “We are thrilled to be a member of EBI as they do an outstanding job representing the best interests of the marine industry across Europe.

“Brunswick has a very large footprint of employees, customers, and manufacturing facilities in EMEA, and we are eager to work closely with the EBI team on issues that are important to all our key stakeholders.”

With these new additions, EBI now represents a total of 25 members spanning 19 European countries.

Several activities for the next twelve months were presented at the general assembly. A particular focus will be on the upcoming EU elections in June 2024 and introducing the newly elected members of the European Parliament to the boating and nautical tourism industry.

“I warmly welcome our new members — the Latvian Cruising Association, the Irish Marine Federation and Brunswick Corporation,” says EBI president Robert Marx. “Reflecting on our past year’s successes, we’re excited about the ambitious plans ahead. Together, we can drive positive change, ensuring a thriving future for the European boating industry.”

In January 2022, EBI outlined its three-year strategy, accompanied by a new logo and branding; the first update since EBI was founded in 2009. A year later, EBI joined the UN World Tourism Organization as an affiliate member.

The next general assembly of EBI takes place in Barcelona, Spain, on 10 and 11 June 2024, hosted by its Spanish member, ANEN.

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